Moving can be an overwhelming task at times, but not all the time. Sometimes it’s a fresh start, a new beginning to another chapter of life. And as with every beginning, there’s an end to its prelude. When shifting houses, that prelude is packing up from your last place.
How do we tackle the business of moving like a pro?
1. Plan ahead
Since you’ve finally decided to move, you must have known about it for quite some time. If you have some days at your disposal, try and prepare in advance, don’t wait until the very last day.
Not only does this ensure a stress-free move, but helps avoid last-minute crises.
2.Put together a checklist
Prepare a checklist of everything that you need to get done. Carry your list in a fanny pack strapped to you so that whenever you remember something, you can get it down on the go.
3. Decide: Hire removalists or DIY?
Interstate shifting in Australia can be arduous, given the long stretches between the states and the tropical weather. Ergo, you might want to consider seeking the help of professionals to shoulder the moving.
For instance, moving from Brisbane to Canberra with your stuff all by yourself isn’t child’s play – it’s a 12-hour-plus journey by road. Since Canberra itself is a considerably affordable city, in retrospect, it’ll be worth the cost to hire movers to cater to the task.
Consider Optimove as your go-to solution in this scenario. Their flexible packages are just what the sensible mover in you is looking for.
They have specialized equipment, from packaging to transport to the crew. Rest assured, you (and your stuff) will be in safe hands.
Whichever option you choose, make sure you book in advance.
The Packing
4.Packing. The heart of moving. Following the tips ahead won’t be as daunting as you might think—first things first: stock up on packing stuff. To get started, you’ll need boxes (no kidding), lots of tape (no kidding for sure), paper (preferably colored) and markers for labels, scissors, and a ruler.
5.When getting boxes, try getting similar sizes, as it’s easier to stack them. And if you’re going with some old ones, make sure they aren’t too worn out. Don’t forget to utilize your suitcases as storage items. It’s foolish to carry them empty.
6.Before filling a box, ensure you secure the bottom tight with tape. You don’t want it coming loose. Place the heaviest stuff at the bottom and let the lighter things follow. However, ensure you don’t put too much weight in the box, as this might cause it to rip.
7.Can’t figure out where to start? Begin from the smaller and move to the bigger stuff. If you have a spare room with less stuff, wrap it up first. Once you’re done with those, move on to the seasonal stuff – things you know you won’t need anytime soon.
8.Organize your packing by sorting the boxes for different rooms. Try not to mix things from other places into one. Color-coded labeling is an intelligent way to keep track. Put the labels on more than one side.
9.When handling cables, take snaps of the setting to know which cord goes where. This will help when you reassemble your electronics. If it’s something fragile, label it so.
Declutter side-by-side
10. Don’t leave it for later. If you feel like there’s stuff you don’t use anymore, it’s okay to say goodbye to it. Try to minimize your belongings as much as you can. Think of shifting as an excuse to get rid of all the waste.
11. If there are furniture pieces that you don’t want to keep and plan on handing over to a relative or friend, consider arranging a temporary storage facility to keep them.
12. While you’re at it, consider donating items instead of throwing all of them and arrange pick-ups for them well ahead of the day you move.
The day before
13.Ensure the availability of utilities at your new place. You don’t want come home tired to find out there isn’t any water or electricity.
14. Make sure you have all the essentials in a separate backpack that stays with you during the move. You’d want toiletries, first-aid items, pet supplies, a mobile charger, and a water bottle.
15.If there’s food you think might go stale over the day: Eat it or give it away.
16.When packing your plants, remember not to water them the day before as it makes them heavier.
17. Take a final look at your old abode and ensure you’re leaving it livable. Confirm that you haven’t violated any rental rights (if you lived on rent).
18. Arrange food for the next day as you may be unable to prepare a meal.
The day of (before boarding)
19. Rise early. It’s finally the day you’ve been waiting for. Look around and make sure everything is done and packed. Stack up all the boxes in one place, so it’s easier to carry them to the loading vehicle service such as Man with Van London.
20. If you’ve hired a crew, have some refreshments at the ready. They might want to take a sip or two of water after the loading.
The day of (after landing)
21.You don’t have to unpack as soon as you arrive, but don’t delay it. It’s easy to get carried away with other stuff but remember that unpacking is as essential as packing.
22. Don’t fuss about organizing it in place on the very first day. Just get stuff in; you can set it up later.
23. Put your refrigerator back in order. Cooking is one of the few things you’ll be doing first at your new place.
24. Lastly, take a walk around your neighborhood. Enjoy the new place and hang out with the people next door. The move might be an exciting chapter of your new life.
Conclusion
There we have it, twenty-four tips to help make moving easier. Follow the tips we’ve mentioned in this article, and if you have any suggestions, put them in the comments box below. Good luck.
